University holds its first graduation ceremony in China

Published: 3 July 2015

University of Southampton students have become the first ever to graduate in China from programmes offered by the institution’s Winchester School of Art (WSA). 69 students celebrated their success at a graduation ceremony held at the campus of Dalian Polytechnic University (DPU).

Graduation at Dalian

DPU Vice President Professor Wendong Ren led the proceedings, presided over by University of Southampton Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Neill.

The event was also attended by the Head of Winchester School of Art Dr Ed D’Souza and Associate Dean (Internationalisation) Stephen Mortimer.

Dr D’Souza says: “I am delighted to see our first cohort of talented students graduate in China. It is the culmination of four years of hard work – by both them and WSA staff – helping to make our programmes in China a great success.

“We are able to offer a unique educational experience at Dalian, with high quality teaching, excellent facilities and the opportunity to work with industry experts in an area of China which is home to hi-tech business and a growing number of creative industries.”

Graduands (click to expand)

Thanks to a successful collaboration between WSA and DPU, students based at Dalian have the opportunity to study either BA Graphic Arts or BA Fashion Design. The four year programmes, which include English language and design modules, offer students an opportunity to transfer to the UK, or continue their studies in China.